Google Play Developer Policy Changes 2026
· 6 min read
Every meaningful Play policy change in 2026 that affects indie devs.
Target SDK bump
Annual bump to the previous year's API level. Confirm your build targets the current minimum or new uploads are rejected.
Data Safety form expansion
More categories around AI/ML processing. Re-review your form if your app uses on-device or cloud AI.
Permissions tightening
Accessibility, SMS, and All Files Access continue to get stricter scrutiny. Document use cases and justify in the Permissions Declaration.
Subscription disclosure
Subscription apps must show pricing more prominently in the listing. Existing apps were notified in early 2026 with a deadline.
Closed-testing rule unchanged
Still 12 testers, 14 days, personal accounts created after 2023-11-13. No signal Google plans to ease or tighten this in 2026.